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A taskforce which aims to evaluate and plan for the controversial retail distribution review, has been established by the Chartered Insurance Institute.

The taskforce will prepare for the anticipated increased demand for qualifications and learning support that will result from the raising of benchmark qualifications for advisers, which is expected in the FSA's retail distribution review final feedback statement due in November.

Steve Jenkins, director of financial services for the CII Group, said: "We are looking at a number of different possible scenarios so that we are prepared for all eventualities. Current trends indicate significant future increases on top of this year's rise, reflecting market momentum.

"This will present the industry with a major logistical exercise but we are determined not only to deal with any capacity issues but also to offer wider choice for our members and others who choose the CII diploma route and beyond."

Mr Jenkins added: "We are already planning a package of measures including, more exam centres, more examiners, increased frequency of exam sessions and better time-tabling to reduce potential clashes.

"We are also looking to add a planning element to the CII diploma, ensuring that both practical application and knowledge is assessed. Advisers have recognised change is happening and many are preparing for the post-RDR world."

The CII has cemented a series of major partnerships with providers and distributors, including Scottish Widows, Norwich Union and Positive Solutions.